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The Staycation rage

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Traveling to a beautiful resort in a picturesque location isn’t the only way to vacation. This holiday season, plan a ‘staycation’ and unwind within (or just outside) your own four walls. Let me tell you how…

 

Low res The Taj Mahal Hotel dome

Dome of Taj Mahal Hotel Mumbai 

Instead of gobbling up the cheap airfares and hotel rooms and spending time, energy and money on a vacation to a faraway place, try staying home, or close to home, and give yourself a much needed staycation.

A staycation is a holiday or vacation time when you stay and relax at home and explore nearby areas of entertainment and recreation. Though the concept achieved popularity in the US during the Great Recession and in the UK due to the weak Pound which made overseas holidays more expensive, it finds resonance even today with those short on time and reeling under ever increasing cost of living. Unwinding minus the stress is the central theory behind a staycation.

low res Ranbanka Palace_06.

Ranbanka Palace , Jodhpur 

Why take one?

Luxurious trips and adventure fuelled holidays can be great of fun, but they aren’t exactly free from stress. Hotel and airline booking, endless hours of travel, the stress of finding someone to take care of the pet and plants and huge bills can be exhausting. Apart from affordability and ease, staycation has other benefits like the opportunity to spend time together and connect as a family and explore the city. We’re often so entrenched in our daily routines and rigours of life that we fail to notice the beauty around us. Chances are, you know a Mumbaiite who rarely gets to the beach, a Bangalorean who’s never seen the ISKCON temple or a Delhiite who has yet to tour Humayun’s Tomb. A staycation is the perfect time to be a tourist in your own city and absorb the history and stories of the place you call home.

Home to hotel
However if you don’t want to stay put at home head to a hotel for the weekend. Most hotels in the city have attractive staycation packages that don’t burn a hole in the pocket. “Staycation guests prefer to stay in their rooms and take it easy. So we give a lot of in room services including a choice of movies with pop corn and nachos, foot massage, board games, PS3 for kids, a swim on the rooftop pool along with all meals,” elaborates Dharmesh Karmokar, serial restaurateur and owner of Hotel Aureole in Mumbai. Larger groups are also serenaded with a guitar and a rooftop barbeque dinner under the stars.

Low res Aureole Hotel Mumbai

Aureole Hotel Mumbai

Golden Tulip a four star luxury resort in Chandigarh provides a staycation package which includes among other things a trip to the picturesque Morni Hills nearby. If you opt to vacation at Courtyard By Marriott Pune the hotel facilitates tours to exhilarating places like Pavana Dam, Japalouppe stud farm and also take you to auto plant to see how the four legged beauties are made. Apart from the usual complimentary breakfast and discounts on food, beverages and spa treatments, Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai offers heritage walks. Bangaloreans can enjoy complimentary wine along with personalized yoga session, tour of the unseen back areas of the hotel like laundry, kitchen, bakery and learn towel art at the Marriott Hotel, Whitefield. At Ranbanka Palace, a heritage hotel in Jodhpur you could dance with the Kaalbelia dancers, sing along with the Langa singers, enjoy puppet shows and take home customised joothi made in the hotel courtyard.

Sofitel Mumbai BKC - Prestige Suite

The Prestige Suite at Sofitel Hotel Mumbai

Long vacations to far-off destination can sometimes leave you more exhausted than refreshed. Try a staycation instead.

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How to plan a great Staycation
Just because you’re staying at home doesn’t mean you should get sucked back into business as usual. Turn off the phone and set an “out of office” message for e-mails. This will help you to truly feel like you’re getting a break, even if you’re not packing a suitcase.

Step out and explore the city. Check the newspaper for local events, exhibitions or film festivals.

We all have a stack of our favourite take-out menus next to the phone. Now is the time to call and eat your heart out.

Read the book you always wanted to but never found the time. Keep a dictionary handy for words that make you go ‘hmm’; a notebook and pen to jot down phrases that make you go ‘aah.’

Bring in your favourite movie snacks, however trans-fatty and decadent. (Reminder: It’s your vacation) and pick from road trips, thrillers, romcoms or tearjerkers. Turn off all the lights and slip away.

Indulge in a luxurious and relaxing massage at home.

BOX ITEM ON BEST STAYCATION OFFERS

Westin Gurgaon
Enjoy one night stay with unlimited house pour brands followed by buffet breakfast in the morning. Price: Rs 9000

Golden Tulip Hotels & Resorts, Chandigargh
Package includes breakfast and meals and spa voucher worth Rs 500 each and 15% discount on liquor. Price: Rs 9, 999 for 2 nights and 3 days

Marriott Hotel Whitefield, Bengaluru
Apart from stay, brunch and complimentary spa the hotel offers yoga sessions, towel art classes, wine, tour of the unseen back areas of the hotel- laundry, kitchen, bakery. Price: Rs 7350 per night.

Sofitel, BKC Mumbai
Buffet breakfast, wellness facilities like the pool and gym with complimentary 30-minute spa. Price: 8,500 for a night.

Hyatt Hotel, Pune, Kalyani Nagar
Stay with buffet breakfast and 15 % discount on f & b and spa with special cocktail hours. Price: Rs 8999 for one night two days.

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR 



Anushka Manchanda – singing up a storm

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low res Anushka Manchanda3Singer, model, daredevil, actor…Anushka Manchanda’s life has taken many turns. But it is music that binds it all for this rock chic.

She became a sensation even before she turned 18. Discovered on one of the first reality shows in India Anushka Manchanda went on to be a part of India’s first girl band VIVA. And though the band split, Anushka moved on to be a VJ, model and even lend her bold and sassy voice to the Hindi film industry. Currently she is making waves for her uninhibited performance in the film Angry Indian Goddesses.

But it wasn’t planned like this. In fact this Delhi girl wanted to go to Cornell in New York to study advertising. It was while studying for her SATs that the talent hunt beckoned and the rest as they say is history (or ‘her’story in this case). Although her days of pop singing are long gone, Anushka has managed to carve an interesting niche for herself in the Indian music world. She brings a certain freshness, chutzpah, glam and groove into the music scene. That’s commendable for someone who’s had no formal vocal training. But music was always omnipresent in the Manchanda family that loves its rock and roll. Anushka started playing the piano at a very early age and grew up listening to a lot of rock and roll, Jimmie Hendrix, Santana, Iron Butterfly and Sting.

low res Anushka ManchandaAnushka made her playback debut with a Tamil song and went on to sing for many more south Indian films, the lyrics of which she didn’t understand. “Whenever I asked the meaning of the songs, they would be very embarrassed and would say, ‘just sing in a sensual husky voice’. Afterwards, when I got a friend to translate the lyrics, I was quite shocked to know I was singing some very raunchy lines,” laughs the singer. Her big Bollywood break came in 2006 when she crooned for Rohit Shetty’s Golmaal. Composed by the hit music director duo Vishal-Shekhar the song turned out to be a thumping success. Numerous other songs followed with noted music composers like Anu Malik, Salim-Sulaiman, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and Pritam Chakraborty and Anushka became the new ‘western voice of Bollywood’ a tag solely owned by Sunidhi Chauhan. She continued the dream run with hit number like Dum Maaro Dum, Dance Basanti, Bezubaan Kabse and Allah Duhai Hai.

In the meanwhile her affair with television continued and she won the second season of the celebrity version of Fear Factor-Khatron Ke Khiladi. The stunts were much harder than they looked on television says Anushka who loves to live life on the edge. Understandably the helicopter stunt where she had to walk from one wing to other still remains her favourite. Biking is another passion and it’s not rare to spot this tall and lanky singer cruising through the Mumbai traffic.

While playback singing is where the money is, live gigs are Anushka’s first love. “There’s so much adrenaline pumping through your body. There have been times when I was sick, but yet went up on stage and had a rocking show. Being on stage just gives you a kind of power and energy that you can’t replicate. It is just amazing,” she says. She can play the crowds as well as myriad instruments (piano, guitar and some drums), with equal elan.

Not one to mince words Anushka admits to being nervous in a recording studio. Not being classically trained only adds to her disadvantage. “Just like on stage where I know my strengths as a singer, at a recording studio, I know my drawbacks. Since I am not classically trained, it is harder for me to do certain modulations. Some harkats don’t come naturally to me,” she confesses.

Acting was a natural progression and Anushka made her debut in the flop movie ‘Dulha Mil Gaya’. But it’s her second and latest film Angry Indian Goddesses that she’s really proud of. “I don’t think the audience has seen such a film before in India. The depiction of women in Bollywood has been very stereotypical and away from reality. But AIG has very real characters,” adds Anushka.

Apart from her singing and acting the one thing that this Electronic music fan is known for is her fashion sense which is anything but boring. Though she loves fashion, she doesn’t let it rule her wardrobe which is a reflection of her self – fun and irreverent. “Whatever I wear, I will make it strong. Even if I wear a pretty dress, I will wear my boots. It is fierce fashion. I go in for the one thing that no one will wear,” says the actress who admires Neha Dhupia and Kangana Ranuat for their sartorial style.

ASKED ALONG THE WAY

What’s playing your iPod?
Lots of music ranging across Alter Ego, Prodigy, Aerosmith, Bubble, Frou Frou, Sean Paul, Death Cab For Cutie, Reverse Polarity, Shkabang and Pentagram.

One stage obsession
I need my boots. They are strong, making it easy to jump around and they also add to my look. But most importantly, they just get me into the mood to rock.

A ritual you follow before going up on stage
I touch the stage and my heart before she I foot on the stage.

Your biggest advantage over men
My height. I intimidate a lot of men because I am quite tall. I have been subjected to unpleasant instances and have turned around and given it right back which shocks a lot of people.

An actor you would love to go on a date with
Keanu Reeves, so I can profess undying love and a 10-year-long crush to him.

The one thing you would love to do that you have not yet done?
I have not done the concert of my life yet. I am working on it!

What next?
I am looking forward to the song I have sung in ‘Dilwale’. I am also writing music independently as an artiste.

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR


Wine review – Casablanca

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I believe there’s always an occasion fit for wine.

It’s a Wednesday and that pizza takeaway tastes so much better with a Zinfandel. Or a friend drops in unexpectedly and you crack open a crisp Cava. The leftovers of a horrible workday can be salvaged with tapas and a glass of wine. Or it’s your anniversary and it’s time to break out that champagne you have been saving for a candlelit dinner. You see a simple glass of bubbly transforms any evening into an impromptu celebration.

For me it was the new year’s eve party at a friend’s home and the wine we uncorked that evening was a Prosecco styled sparkling wine – Casablanca. Internationally, Prosecco is taking the wine world by storm with its fruit forward and approachable style. Casablanca comes from Good drop Wine Cellars a sparkling wine company founded in 2009 by winemaker Ashwin Rodrigues who learned his Craft in the Barossa Valley, Australia.

Casablanca  Captain's table

Casablanca is a light and easy drink with medium high acidity and hints of sweetness. It has a generous fruity nose of kiwi and grapes with lime and floral undertones. The menu for the evening was Indian and I wasn’t sure how the wine will augur with that. But to my surprise Casablanca held up to the medium spiced rawas fry cooked by my friend. Another starter of feta cheese and watermelon too paired beautifully with the wine.

Casablanca is definitely a wine worth trying this Valentine’s Day. And the cost? Just Rs 950.

Nivedita Jayaram Pawar


Fun under the Sula Sun

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low res Balkan Beat Box at SulaFest 2016As much as I love music, I hate concerts. It’s just such a messy affair with sweaty people jumping and dancing in open pavilions. I would rather walk, go running, or sit in the back seat of a car listening to my favourite bands than see them in concert. And that’s the reason I passed on the opportunity to be a part of Sula Fest for the last couple of years.

However I made an exception this year and thank god I did! Cause it wasn’t just a heady mix of music…but also wine, gourmet food, fashion and more…

After a four hour bus ride from Mumbai and a quick shower we headed straight to the fest and to the job – wine tasting. Yes I know the age-old rule about drinking (one that everyone knows and most people have broken) always fill up on food before filling up on alcohol. But food surfaced just before the second round of tastings. I particularly enjoyed the Brut Tropicale in an attractive digital psychedelic bottle covered in riotous paisleys. Made with premium black grapes including PinotNoir the sparkling wine is fresh, fruity and very palatable. The Riesling, limited edition Rasa Shiraz and Rasa Cabernet were all washed down with the very delish goat cheese made by chef Morgan Rainforth of the popular SOLEIL by La Plage.

low res Kailasa at SulaFest 2016

Kailash Kher performing with his band at Sula Fest 2016

There were loads of special tours and tastings for all the wine enthusiasts. Hardys, Asahi Super Dry Beer, Cointreau, Grant’s Whiskey, Jägermeister, Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 Tennessee Whiskey and Stolichnaya Vodka ensure no one went thirsty!

What piqued my interest the most was the wine and ice-cream pairing. Adaptability is a positive quality, so I said – let’s break some rules. According to dessert and wine pairing guidelines, the wine should be sweeter than the dessert, or else the wine may come across as flat. The other element to consider is acidity. Most wines are inherently acidic. London Dairy paired five of their ice-creams with some sula best sellers. While I am not sure if the pairing worked for ME but the mango sorbet from London Dairy is just divine.

low res Kim Sharma at SulaFest 2016Fun activities like foot massages, tarot reading, grape stomping, etc added to the fest-feel. There was glamour too – Narendra Kumar, Mona Juneja, Yash Birla, Ishita Arun, Arjun Khanna, Kim Sharma, Malini Aggarwal, Malavika Sangghvi, Devieka Bhojwani, Aparna Badlani, Sameer Daddy Malhotra…

The music line-up included The Cat Empire from Australia who made their India debut with songs from their soon to be released album ‘Rising with the Sun’! Sunday saw Kailash Kher perform two songs from his soon to be released album – Kailasa Ishq Anokha. The Atmasphere stage in the midst of the vineyard had DJs spinning some incredible underground music.

Fast fashion brand VERO MODA launched its spring summer collection 2016 at the fest. Anushka Manchanda gave the audience an fashionable performance as a showstopper.

Any wine festivals you have attended? What was your experience?

I can hardly wait for the next edition…

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR 

 

 

 


Restaurant Review – Toast, T24 Hotel

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low res Lemongrass Skewered Chargrilled Prawns with SomTam Salad at Toast

Somtam salad with lemongrass skewered prawns

Toast takes a little finding, but it’s worth the detective work and justifies the rush hour traffic you’ll have to tackle just to get to this rooftop bistro, where you’re greeted by glorious lighting, mason jars, a shelf full of books, quirky mismatched chairs, exposed brick walls and funny Bollywood one-liners!

12457759_44_zCosy nooks make it ideal for a relaxed date – your call whether views of airplanes taking off into the distance are romantic or not. There are plenty of larger tables for group of friends. But bring people you like, Toast is too good to waste on a polite drink with the office.

t24-residency

WHAT’S HOT: Toast dresses familiar food in a fancy garb. So the chicken lasuni tikka comes cocooned in a phylo pastry shell, mushroom soup in a cappuccino cup, fries in egg coddler and prawns tempura on a bed of fried wantons. The ‘hero’ dish is the crispy fried calamari on a bed of arugula leaves. Tender meat behind a crackling coating. Among the mains the spaghetti with garlic, chilli and parmesan is delicious in its simplicity. Indian dishes are accompanied by a choice roti/rice, dal and salad.

low res Capriccio Bruschetta at Toast

Bruschetta 

The bar here is staffed by folks who won’t collapse like a soufflé when you move beyond signature drinks. This is rarer than you think in Mumbai, where there are cocktails, cocktails, everywhere and not a drop to drink. My favourite here is T-Sour which makes good use of the scotch bourbon along with sour mix, egg Nog and bitters. Tequila based Candy Crush is for those who like their drink sweet and sour.

lOW RES Accompaninents served at TOAST

Accompaniments to a meal at Toast

On my return to I’ll definitely reorder the chocolate pudding with a gooey centre. This time I would refuse to share my dessert, an excellent, chocolate pudding zinging with fresh Belgium chocolate lava. I made that mistake the first time and quickly saw my error as it vanished into a rival gob.

low res Cocktail T-SOUR at TOAST

Whiskey Sour

WHAT’S NOT: Not everything at Toast is a triumph: the beetroot risotto lacked the cheesiness or any specific oomph, even if it looked glorious.

HOW TO GET THERE:  Marol, Andheri (E), 2 mins walk from Airport Road Metro Station. Tel: 29203818.

COST: Rs 2500 for two with alcohol.

 

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

 


Up close and personal with Yami Gautam

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low res YaamiThere are some people who radiate positivity, energy and happiness – what we call ‘good vibes’. Yami Gautam is one of those people. And she has reason to be. Not many actors from television make the cut to Bollywood. Her debut film Vicky Donor, directed by Shoojit Sircar was a sleeper hit. Made on a shoe-string budget the film not only vowed both the audiences and critics but also earned her many female debut awards.

But how did a girl born in Himachal Pradesh and raised in Chandigarh land up in Bollywood? A civil servant aspirant Yami was pursuing a law degree when her uncle sent her pictures to a production house. An audition for a television serial landed her in Mumbai and Yami never returned.

Mumbai, Yami says drily, was a bit of a culture shock. “Being independent is ok. But being independent and physically away from family is tough. Back in Chandigarh everyone knew everyone. When I first landed in Mumbai the city seemed so scary. I was also disappointed as I thought everyone in Mumbai stayed next to the sea. That’s what I had seen in the movies!” she laughs.

The journey from television to the movies was a long and arduous one. But Yami held on. “There was never a plan B in my scheme of things. I had to make it. Of course there were moments I when I felt I couldn’t go on. Numerous auditions, rejections, unforeseen delays, etc take a toll on you. What you see in films like Fashion is actually true. I have had several people tell me that I am ‘different’ and not typical Bollywood,” she remembers.

Yami’s first film was about a sperm donor and understandably she was apprehensive about signing on the dotted. “I handed the script to my mom, but she asked me to tell her what the film was about. When I told her, she was chilled out. But I felt very awkward about telling the film’s story to my dad, so I handed over the script to him and told him to read it at his office. Much to my relief, he also liked the script.” It helped that her co-star Ayushmann Khurana was a family friend from Chandigarh.

Dealing with the constant scrutiny and double standards of the industry was even tougher for the emotionally sensitive Yami. “Time and experience toughens you up. Initially I used to be very upset with what’s written about me or when someone spoke bad about me behind my back. But I guess that’s how they welcome you to the big bad world of Bollywood.” The Badlapur actress meditates regularly to distress and calm her nerves.

Yami-Gautam-Beautiful-HD-Wallpaper-Pictures-7Yami is acutely aware of the fact that it’s doubly hard for girls from non-filmi backgrounds as the probability of a second chance is low. And that’s probably the reason the actress is cautious with her choice of films. After all her second film Total Siyappa a romantic comedy directed by Eshvar Niwas and produced by Neeraj Pandey of A Wednesday fame proved to be a damp squib at the box office. “It was all too sudden – the applause after Vicky Donor and the pressure of singing the right film. I had to do it all on my own. It’s during times like these that you miss someone hand holding you through these difficult decisions. But that phase taught me lot,” stresses the actor who has been the face of a leading fairness cream for a really long time. Friendly and unpretentious, she has no delusions about the ephemeral nature of fame. Values fluctuate with every Friday and then it all disappears one day, believes the petite actress.

low res Yaami GautamiWhile Bollywood circles are abuzz with rumours of the actor dating her Sanam Re co-star Pulkit Samrat (with whom the actor shares a passionate kiss in the film) Yami has however refuted the rumours. But she is not averse to love when it finds her. Men with good looks and skills in the kitchen have a greater chance. “He needs to be a foodie too. If he can cook that will be the icing on the cake. Or else we could even cook together. All said and done he needs to pass the chai test. I make a really good chai and my man should be able to make a better one,” laughs Yami. Having grown up on Casablanca, DDLJ, Maine Pyar Kiya and Titantic Yami is a dyed in the wool romantic. “He doesn’t have to do something extraordinary. Just cooking together or going on a long drive are exciting enough for me.”

Some more Yami…

I am
Shy, sensitive, soft hearted and a die-hard romantic

Yami means
Daughter of the sun. As a child I would be petrified if my name was to be announced on stage. It was always mispronounced as Yummy or Yamini – anything but Yami.

I fantasise about
Food. I just love food. Just check my Instagram feeds for proof.

I wish I could
Eat all that I want to and never put on weight

I am proudest
Of the fact that I am self made

I am a fan of
Madhuri Dixit

I miss
Gardening with my father in Chandigarh. It used to be a Sunday ritual for us.

Most difficult scene ever
For Sanam Re we shot in freezing temperatures in Pangong Lake and Calgary and then we shot in sweaters in the sweltering Mumbai heat of 46 degrees!

Fashion Mantra
Stay in tune with the trends but respect your body type. Trying too hard is so uncool.

Biggest faux pas
I got clicked wearing an ugly pair of chunky black heels with a beautiful red gown. I thought no one would notice but it was all over the papers.

Fashion icon
I love the way Tyra Banks dresses up – she looks so elegant and glamorous in whatever she wears.

Favourite destinations
London and New York.

Fitness Mantra
I am not a gym person, but I stay fit by playing sports. I try and stick to a balanced diet and drink lots of water to stay healthy.

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

 


5 Spice Wok – Review

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Wok 3It didn’t need too much coaxing for me to step out and check out the new addition to the 5 Spice family – 5 Spice Wok. Firstly it’s just 5 minutes away from home and most importantly it’s stir fry Chinese! I love the smoky, singed flavour of stir fry and also the healthy way of cooking vegetables and meat for short periods over high heat that retains their natural vitamins.

5 Spice Wok is a no frills QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) with a DIY concept. Here’s the deal: You choose your base – rice/noodle, then add your protein (fish, chicken, prawns or veggies) and then proceed to choose from over eight sauces. Your food is tossed up in a wok and served too in a wok. There are no plates and you are encouraged to eat off the wok.

5 Spice Wok Interiors 2 Kandivali

Situated in a crowded lane and surrounded by other restaurants in Thakur Complex, the setting for 5 Spice Wok is hardly uplifting. But walk in and you are greeted by a cheery, well lit and cosy restaurant perked up with colourful window panes and tongue in cheek posters. Lights in cages and naked filament bulbs add warmth to the quirky ambiance.

What’s Hot: Exotic veggies in Kung Pao sauce was perfect. The veggies had a nice crunch and were perked up with just the right amount of heat which doesn’t blow out your taste buds.

Wok 1

Fish in Chilly basil sauce

There’s nothing worse than wok-cooked vegetables that die on the way from the wok to the table. The fish in Thai Basil sauce had moist diced bites of rawas tossed with bell peppers, garlic slivers and red chillies. Each mouthful is a salty, smoky joy. But the winner for me was the prawns in Mongolian sauce. Bold with soy, it had plenty of fire from the garlic, ginger and chilies.

Flavours at 5 Spice wok are big and brassy. Yet the heat isn’t so searing that you can’t appreciate the nuances of everything else that has gone into the dish. Vegetables emerge crisp and bright. Meats are flavourful, tender, and well seared. Though there is a limited selection in desserts the strawberry cheese cake is spot on. Topped with strawberry compote it has the perfect balance between dense and fluffy, sweet and tart – everything a cheesecake should be.

Dessert 3

Dessert 2

Death by Chocolate

What’s Not: While the starters at 5 Spice Wok win you over with their simplicity and robust flavours the quantity is a letdown. Let’s get this right – we Indians love to share (remember Manchow soup one by two?) But the portions here are so small that I went back to the menu just to check the price. It’s Rs 250 for non-veg starters and Rs 230 for vegetarian. For that price I would definitely expect it to be good to share between two people. But sadly it’s not.

Secondly the noodles here are drowned in the sauce. That’s a pity since it completely over powers the base. There is just one choice of noodles – hakka. How about adding wheat and flat noodles? Some soup would be great too for days when you don’t want to fill up on the mains.

Since it’s wok style cooking I expected to see an open kitchen as against the food  magically appearing out from closed doors. There is something magical about watching chefs who have mastered the art of showmanship toss up the food step-by-step. The sounds, the smells, and the sights of cooking can really help you work up an appetite. Think about it 5 Spice Wok!

Address: Shop no 6, Maruti Tower, Thakur complex, Kandivali east,  Near western express Highway. Tel: 022-28542406 / 405 / 451

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

 


Tried & Tested – United Sports Bar

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Channa Express  - The United

Channa Express 

With the cricketing season just heating up, it’s important to find a good spot to settle in and catch the matches. United Sports Bar & Grill is one place where you can root for your team without having to get too rowdy.

This sprawling watering hole in Thane is big, loud and a bit fratty. Yet something about it keeps me coming back for more. Maybe it’s the numerous LCD screens that the friendly staff will happily tune to whatever channel you want to watch. It could be the music which seems to oscillate between chart busters and classics. Or the impressive selection of bar bites and comfort food by chef Dominic Sequeira. But most of all, I think it’s the vibe: easy, relaxed yet energetic.

low res Crispy Chicken

Crispy Chicken 

Another reason I make the trip to Thane is that it’s – whisper it – not that expensive. Sometimes we remember a place by the bill that drowns the credit card. But starters here are priced between  Rs 80-300 and a pint of beer costs Rs 195. Lounge on comfy couches or settle in with a pitcher on the long community table and catch all the sporting action on the numerous projection TVs. If you overstay, take advantage of the extended happy hours where you get two drinks for the price of one (12-8pm).

There is a range of molecular drinks but my favourite is Orange Popping Boba (Rs 400) which is a whiskey based drink with passion fruit. The herbs-n-spice infusions in the cocktails are interesting as they add a twist to an otherwise simple concoction.

low res Khichiya Papad Masala

Khichiya Papad 

Start with Spiced Chicken Wings (Rs 180) which come gloriously bathed in barbeque sauce. The chicken is full of flavour, rich and a little smoky. The orange infused chili chicken (Rs 200) gets a kick from fresh orange rind and chillies. If you like something light the Khiciya papad (Rs 100) topped with tomatoes, onions and chillies make for a quick and easy snack. Nothing glorious but deeply satisfying. So is the snack of fried chick peas with garlic and chaat masala (Channa Express Rs 100). Another must try are the bacon wrapped prawns (Rs 420). Prawns hugged by thin slices of bacon and sitting on a bed of lettuce are closer to haute cuisine than bar bites. If you’re looking for a stellar main course with a good dose of protein and veggies, this is where you can call off the search. The herb crumbed basa (Rs 280) with lemon butter sauce is refreshing in its simplicity. The veggies retain their crunch and colour and the sauce adds just a hint of adventure to the otherwise perfect fish.

low res Carrot Halwa Cheese Cake

Carrot Halwa Cheese Cake

My preferred way to close a meal is to finish whatever is left in my glass. But professional obligations require me to dip into cakes, cookies and other confections. I am not complaining as United Sports Bar entices me with a few simple desserts that bridge comfort with elegance. The sweet to be savoured above all others is the Carrot halwa cheese cake (Rs 200). It’s the best matrimony of mascarpone cheese with carrots. If you order the Paan flavoured panna cotta be ready to post the beauty on Instagram. A dessert in a martini glass and sparked with a chocolate coasted paan is sure to hike up your followers.

low res Paan-A-Cota

Where: United Sports Bar, Viviana Mall, Thane. Tel: 02261701331.
United Sports Bar, R City Mall, Ghatkopar. Tel: 02266429850

 

 

 



Kareena Kapoor is a chocolate girl

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Magnum Pleasure Ambassador Kareena Kapoor Khan launches Magnum Brownie 1“I am still to see someone who doesn’t like ice-creams and brownies,” said Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor at the launch of Magnum ice-cream brownie variant. The Bajrangi Bhaijaan star spoke of how she would gobble up multiple ice-creams after school. This didn’t go down well with her mother the yesteryear’s actress Babita. The ice-cream fixations stayed on all these years and the actress indulges in them every once in a while. She confessed to having downed two ice-creams just before the launch! “If it’s a cheat day it’s definitely chocolate icecream. Now even Saif is addicted to them and blames me for his weight gain,” she revealed.  And what does she like most about the new variant? “The crackling sound when you bite into the chocolate crust before reaching the brownie. I just love it.” Yes the new Magnum brownie has a Belgian Chocolate coating so thick that it creates a distinctive crack when you bite into it. According to Kareena her Ki and Ka co-star Arjun Kapoor is the dishiest chocolate brownie in Bollywood.

Magnum Pleasure Ambassador Kareena Kapoor Khan launches Magnum Brownie 2Magnum Brownie marries two all time favourite desserts – chocolate and brownie. It’s definitely a match made in gastronomic heaven! The new variant also comes in Magnum’s brand new packaging, with a bolder more distinct “M” logo and the famous Belgian chocolate crack.

While we don’t usually need a special time to celebrate our favourite frozen, creamy dessert, now is as good a time as ever. The new variant is available across all major stores in Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai at Rs 90 stick.

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR


Bangla Food fest at Sofitel Mumbai BKC

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Chitol Macher Kalia at the Sofitel Mumbai BKC

Chitol Macher Kalia

As much as I crave a good sambar rice, I hanker for Ilish Bhapa with equal fervor. My love for Bengali food often sees me land uninvited to Bengali homes. I unabashedly ask for leftovers of macher johol (yes they taste better the next day) and even tag along with Bengali friends to Durga Puja for the mahaprasad of khichuri and bhaja. So when I heard Sofitel Mumbai BKC had a East Bengal / Bangladesh food festival I did the obvious – drove there and ate till I was in food coma!

East Bengal/ Bangladeshi food is very similar to West Bengal barring the fact that Bangladeshi food has a slight Mughlai touch. Both cuisine favour fish and the use of mustard and poppy seeds are similar. The food festival at Novotel is put together by chef Sirajul from Novotel Kolkata.

Chicken Kabiraj at the Sofitel Mumbai BKC

Chicken Kabiraj

We started with a non vegetarian snack – Chicken Kabiraj. It’s a cutlet made with minced chicken and spices dipped in egg and coated with breadcrumbs. Like other chop cutlets, this recipe too is the result of British influence on the Bengali cuisine. Needless to say it was crunchy on the outside and succulent inside. Though I missed Illish bhapa  one of my favourite Bengali dishes, I was glad to see another favourite – Kosha Mangsho – a mutton dish. The perfectly cooked, juicy meat had a Mughlai touch with the use of whole spices and a thin layer of oil floating over it. Yummy. The Katla Macher Kalia (fish curry) was heady from the mustard seeds, nigella seeds, chillies and ginger paste.

Jhinge Aloo Poshto at the Sofitel Mumbai BKC

Jhinge Aloo Phosto

The amount of respect Bengalis pay to vegetables is unprecedented. Simple ridgegaurd is elevated with the use of poppy seeds and mustard paste in Jinghe Posto. It goes beautifully with steamed rice. The simple yellow dal tempered with mustard seeds is akin to the Maharashtrian waran with strong hints of ghee.

Bongs love to have their fish in unthinkable ways. Apart from frying, steaming, baking and dunking it in gravies they also put it in pulao! The Ilish Polao a great combination of spicy Ilish with rice was full of depth. Though Bengali food is known for its liberal use of green chilies, and Bangladesh in particular is famed for having some of the hottest dishes in the world, the dishes at the food festival have been toned down to suit various palates. Among the desserts I loved the misti doi and gurer kheer.

Dessert platter - Mohan Bhog, Malai Sandwich & Mishti Doi at the Bangladeshi food festival at Sofitel Mumbai BKC

Mohan Bhog, Malai sandwich and Mhisti Doi

Pondicherry Café the venue of the festival is dressed in Bangla fervor with a cycle tonga at the entrance, terracotta pots and jhal muri cycles.

Where: Pondichéry Café, Sofitel Mumbai BKC

Date: 18th to 27th March 2016

Time: Lunch – 12:30 pm onwards and Dinner – 7:00 pm onwards

Price: Rs 3,400 (all inclusive)

For reservations, call +91 (22) 6117 5115

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

 


Book Streets of Mumbai

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Low res Dilip Mahindkar at the booth on Book Street

Dilip Mahindkar specialises in architecture and interior design books

It’s true that there are book streets all over India but none rivals the ambiance of the one in Mumbai. Nestled against the backdrop of beautiful Victorian buildings and tall peepal trees the book street in Mumbai is where Vikram Seth jostles for space with William Shakespeare. Who knows what you could find here?

The five-way intersection that encircles Flora Fountain at Churchgate is a treasure for book lovers. Sandwiched between food stalls, footwear vendors and juice stalls sit the book peddlers with their wares neatly stacked according to genres. ‘Stacks’ is an understatement; these are entire walls of books. Fiction, non-fiction, classics, academic, original copies, second hand… there is even a first edition of F Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby.

Foreign tourist browing through the stacksSo what makes book lovers flock to the pavements for their books? The rarity of some of these books available here could be one of the reasons. There are all sorts of books here right from the rarest classics to the modern bestsellers. Don’t remember the title of the book you are looking for? Just mention the author and the seller will spew out off the titles. These men are not just acquainted with the books they sell but some of them are also clued in to the genres as well. Spew out names like Dostoevsky, Sartre and Salinger and they’ll return with several piles, while simultaneously asking you if you’d be interested in Pasternak, Steinbeck or Camus.

If you visit on a peaceful Sunday afternoon these streets offer better ambiance than most of the book stores in the city. Where else can you browse through scores of titles under the shade of a peepal tree? There is zero interruption and help is provided only when you ask for it. Just pull a stool and read away.

What’s in store
These bookstalls spilling over onto the pavement carry literary classics, British history, books on politics and even scholarly books. Dinesh Mondal who has been peddling books on the streets for the last 20 years says that teenagers and youngsters enjoy Dan Brown, Jeffrey Archer and similar authors while people between 30-50 enjoy reading books management, psychology and self-help books. Of course Chetan Bhagat is an all time favourite. Apart from a fair smattering of current hits and bestsellers of yesteryears there are old copies of Lonely Planets, National Geographic and Orange Penguin Paperbacks. While literature guides and academic exam preparation books are popular with students, Freakonomics is a hit with office-goers. Adolescents come asking for John Green’s books while Fifty Shades of Grey is a revelation to middle-aged women.

low res Dinesh Mondol at his booth on Book Street

Dinesh Mondal at his booth on Book Street 

There are no pirated versions here but only genuine copies insist the sellers. “We refrain from keeping pirated copies as they come with bad prints and missing pages. It spoils our relationship with our customers,” clarifies Mondal. All the books on sale were used ones, bought from individuals or public libraries. If you are unsure about a book and worried if you will like it or not Book Street has an answer. On returning the book you will be reimbursed 70 per cent of the price you paid. This is one of the reasons the vendors on the street are hardly affected by the onslaught of online book sales. “You can buy books online but can you return the book upon reading? We only keep 30 per cent of the price you paid and return the rest. You could choose to buy another book or walk away with the money,” says Dilip Mahindkar who specialises in architecture and interior design books.

Apart from the mammoth collection (some of these booths stocks over 5,000 titles) there are some rare and vintage pieces like Indrajal comics which date back to the 1960s. “I once sold a Indrajal comic for Rs 5000, the cover price for which was Rs 1.50,” reveals Bhaskar Rao a vendor here.

Low res The Book street

The wares on the Book Street, Churchgate, Mumbai 

The deals
Books on book street are peddled at 20-60 per cent of the listed publisher’s price. Architecture book from Moshe Safdie which cost Rs 3500 is sold at Rs 2000 here. Coffee table book of portraits by Steve MacCurry originally priced at Rs 1200 is out for grabs at Rs 500. A little bargaining skill may come handy. First editions in top condition with the dust jacket on could be had at throwaway prices. A modern classic such as the 1988 Matilda by Roald Dahl illustrated by Quentin Blake is available at Rs 200 and a hardback copy of A Game Of Thrones by George RR Martin may not cost over Rs 300. Now that’s a deal the Amazons of the world can hardly match.

BY NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR


American Frozen Yogurt Menchie’s now in India

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DSC_7532Menchie’s America’s premium frozen yoghurt chain has now launched its first outlet in Khar, Mumbai, India. The menu at this self-serving yogurt franchise holds non-fat, low-carbohydrate, no-added-sugar, gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free options.

Menchie's YogurtThe store has a DIY concept that allows guests to make their own unique mixes from more than 100 rotating frozen yogurt flavors and more than 25 rotating toppings. The menu is customised to fit the Indian market and includes flavours like caramel apple, kesar ellaichi, cashew almond, banana bread, wildberry, peppermint, cinnamon, kiwi, black currant, mango sorbet and chocolate chip cookie dough to name a few.

DSC_7359With over 530 outlets across China, Japan, Pakistan, Australia, India, Saudi Arabia, Dubai and South Africa, Menchie’s plans to open over 10 outlets in India.


Are you guilty of these Skincare habits? Get rid of them now!

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skin1While we all have the best intentions when it comes to taking care of our complexion, we sometimes sabotage our skin without realizing it. Daily habits make a major difference when it comes to preventing damage and premature aging. For my story for The Week Smartlife June issue, I spoke to renowned dermatologists for an insight in to the 10 most common skincare mistakes and how to fix them.

 

Applying Vitamin E capsules on skin
Vitamin E capsules for oral consumption do not have absorption into the skin and should not be broken and applied to the skin believes Mumbai based Dr. Apratim Goel, Dermatologist and Laser Surgeon. Being a thick oil, it can cause skin irritation and also aggravate acne and rosacea by further clogging skin pores. Also Vitamin E deficiency is very rare and this vitamin has many interactions with other medications, she adds.

Falling for the herbal/organic trap
It’s a myth that herbal or organic products are safe for skin and the chemical based ones are harmful. The truth is that ALL skin products have chemicals in it and not all chemicals are harmful. “Just the term ‘herbal’ does not mean that it is chemical free. Herbal or organic products have all the chemicals and ingredients that other products have. It is impossible to formulate a product without chemicals. So don’t use a product blindly just because of the herbal tag. I would recommend the use of a product based on skin condition and effect desired,” says consulting Dermatologist Dr. Sushil Tahiliani, Hinduja Healthcare Surgical, Mumbai.

skinWashing the face several times each day
Keeping the face clean does not equal washing it several times a day. In fact, it is a good idea to wash your face only at night. “Use soap and medication only at night. Simply splash water on your face in the morning and follow up with sunscreen. Washing too often produces the same problems as prolonged sun exposure. When the skin’s natural oils are dried up by the sun or constantly washed off, the sebaceous glands will produce even more oil which will clog pores,” reveals Dr Soma Sarkar, Dermatologist from Mumbai.

Skipping the sunscreen
Tan isn’t sexy. It’s the first sign of skin damage. Forgetting to apply sunscreen can leave you with mortifying wrinkles and sun spots. Even on cloudy days, pamper and protect your skin with a good SPF as the UV-A & UV-B rays are omnipresent and can cause harm to the skin. “If you want to prevent wrinkles, wearing sunscreen 365 days a year, rain or shine, inside or out, is a must. Always make it a point to carry a small tube or spray of sunscreen SPF 30+ and keep retouching every four hours or so. It’s a little effort but worth all of it,” suggests Dr Anil K Agrawal, Head Of Skin And Cosmetic Surgery, Park Group Of Hospital, New Delhi.

 Over Exfoliation
Be gentle with your face. A lot of people in the quest to look younger and have smoother skin, go at their skin with a bit too much gusto with scrubs and exfoliants. Dr Meghna Gupta, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Director at Delhi Skin Centre warns that over-exfoliation can cause wrinkles, dry skin and even scarring. Avoid using harsh grains and use a gentle scrub or exfoliant so you don’t cause damage to the skin. “Over indulging the skin can cause more harm than help. It’s best to exfoliate no more than once a week, because this gives the baby-new skin cells a chance to grow, and your skin time to replenish and rehydrate,” adds Dr Gupta.

Avoid make up thinking it’s bad for skin
Not always. In fact makeup also hides blemishes, provides sun protection and nourishment as they are fortified with moisturizer, vitamins, sunscreen, etc. However one should not sleep with makeup on and also those with acne prone skin must avoid too much makeup for long hours, warns Dr Tahiliani.

Skimping on sleep and diet
What you put in your body is just as important as what’s on it. If you notice your expensive serums and moisturizers not working, the problem is probably as simple as cutting back on sugar and drinking more water. “Sleep and hydration are essential for skin health. Not getting enough water can literally leave your skin thirsty, making it look dry and dull. So make sure you’re drinking enough water every day (at least eight glasses a day). There are also tons of superfoods you can eat that are packed with vitamins and antioxidants to improve your skin from the inside out. Sleep is so important for skin turnover. Hitting the sheets a little earlier can help give you a healthier glow,” advises Geeta Oberoi, Mumbai based Dermatologist and Cosmetologist.

You pick at your pimples.
Hands off, says Dr Navin Taneja, Dermatologist and Director of The National Skin Centre, New Delhi. “You will end up with a bigger problem because squeezing a pimple will give you severe inflammation which leads to hyper pigmentation and scarring. This can aggravate more acne formation and acne marks.” Here’s the bitter reality: When we try to pop a pimple, we tend to squeeze from the side, which results in the infection moving down, deeper into the pore. Dr Taneja’s advice is to avoid picking and applying a blemish treatment to help dry out the blemish.

Washing face with soap
Washing your face with a bar of soap (no matter how much you paid for it) strips your skin of all its water and instantly creates dead skin cell buildup. “The binders that hold a bar of soap together have a high pH balance, making it too drying for most skin types. Soaps also clog the pores and don’t cleanse the skin as well as a cleanser. It is better to use a face wash instead of soaps. Also choose a cleanser according to your skin type,” says Dr. Goel. 

Sleeping with makeup on
There are bound to be nights when even a simple skin care routine feels like too much. But if you want to wake up with gorgeous and glowing looking skin then you have to take off you makeup before bed says Dr Taneja. Your skin uses the time you’re sleeping to renew itself, and if you’re wearing makeup while your skin is trying to do this, it’ll cause blemishes and dry, dull skin. Moreover, going to bed with makeup is a sure way to clog your pores which may lead to acne. Washing your face before hitting the hay is an indispensable part of healthy skin care. And be sure to use a night-time moisturizer, too. If you don’t feel like going to the bathroom to do the full wash, then keep face cleansing wipes that don’t require water on your nightstand. A quick wipe isn’t quite the same as washing your face, but it will at least clean your face of dirt, oils and debris that have accumulated over the day.

 


Japanese restaurant Ruka – A review

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Tuna SashimiWhen Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Bahrain decided to bring its popular luxury Japanese restaurant Ruka to Mumbai, it not just imported the brand but also its Japanese Chef Masato Toida from Bahrain. Styled in black and brown Ruka is quite stark and impersonal. Thankfully the food is bright and flavourful.

Nigri Sushi Platter 2Plonk yourself at the sushi bar that faces the open kitchen. It not just places you in the centre of the action but also in front of the amazing display of tantalisingly fresh cuts of salmon, tuna, seasbass, octopus, red snapper, avocado nigiri, Unagi Nigiri, Temari Sushi and Scallop Gunkan.

WHAT’S HOT: Japanese food is all about freshness. That’s why Ruka imports a major part of its ingredients directly from Japan, including the fish. Warm up with a drink, particularly the citrusy Konji Sasemasu which vodka spiked with ginger ale and lime juice. The peppermint “caviar” at the bottom adds a minty twist as they burst in the mouth. The prawn tempura here comes with a crunch loud enough to perk up neighbours’ ears. Another dish that’s easy to fall for is the Har Gow (moon shaped dim sum) – pink chunks of shrimp and bamboo shoot veiled in thin, crystal skinned, translucent casing. Heavenly.

Omakase Dessert Platter 2The sushi and sashimi here can cost a small fortune. But skipping them is like going to Rome and skipping the Vatican. Start with Salmon Sushi that mesmerises the taste buds with its freshness and right amount of vinegar. The tuna sashimi just needs a light citrus drizzle to make it sing. For the mains look no further than the Mushroom Hotpot Rice. Earthy, buttery and fragrant it’s the perfect comfort food and is served in the hotpot that it is cooked in. If you need a sugar rush, go for the Chocolate and Hazelnut Fondant served with vanilla ice cream.

Ruka Lounge Interior

WHAT’S NOT: A heavy hand with ginger kills the natural flavours of the Grilled Chilean Sea bass. Ask your server to go easy on it.

How to get there: Ruka, ground floor, Ramee Guestline Hotel, 462, A.B. Nair Road, Juhu. Tel:  022 67159225. Three minutes walk from ISKCON temple.

Cost: Rs 4,500 plus taxes for two.

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR


Have you tried the new Cocktail Pre Mixes?

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MojitoThough I am a whisky drinker, there are days when I long to have a great cocktail at home. But frankly, I don’t have the skills to whip one up myself.

Owners of Light House Café, Mumbai probably had people like me in mind when they introduced cocktail premixes (minus alcohol) that are super easy to put together. All you have to do is open it, pour the alcohol, shake it up in a cocktail shaker and add some rocks (if you wish).

TY ELDERFLOWER - LHC Mix Kit by Light House Cafe

LHC Cocktail premix kit 

 

Let’s face it: ready-to-drink mixes have a bad reputation for being fruit-flavored sugar bombs. While those versions are still be on the market, LHC Mix has a range of vodka, whisky, beer, tequila, gin, white rum and wine based inventive and classic cocktails that are as easy as uncork and pour. You can now enjoy everything from a Caipiroska to a Mojito without suffering the crowd or prices of a bar. The LHC Mix menu has 17 cocktail pre-mixes and one mocktail mix. Each mix of 150 ml serves 1.

SANGRIA LHC MIX POUCH

LHC Sangria mix 

Since I was looking for a low-key cocktail to sip at the end of a long day, I tried the spice infused Mulled wine with cranberries. The drink is topped off with dried cranberry bits for a little extra oomph. All I needed was a wine glass.

I also tried the Vodka based Green apple martini. While the mixes won’t win any prizes for best packaging (packed in a gold pouch), they were easy to rustle up (there is a detailed step-by-step note with every drink). The martini was nice and tangy with green apple, orange and lemon extracts. All I had to do was pour the mix in a cocktail shaker (even a high ball glass would do if you don’t have a shaker), fill it up with ice to the brim and give it a good shake. Remove the ice and pour it in a martini glass. Simple.

Ty Elderflower LHC MIX POUCHThe mix stays for 3 days if refrigerated and for 3 hours if kept at room temperature once delivered.

I think the premixes make perfect sense when you’re looking for a cocktail with minimal effort to impress at a dinner party or just unwind after a long day. If you need a bartender or a bartending team, the guys at Light House Café will even send them along (for an extra cost of course)

What you need to know

Price: Rs 60-110 inclusive of delivery charges

Delivery area: Juhu to South Mumbai

Delivery time: 20 to 45 mins

Order Timings: 12 pm to 11 pm (All Days)

Call: 9967414148/ 9987610897

 



Vegetarian? Try Juno’s Pizza

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masterchef PIzza - 1Hot or cold, thin or fat, round or square, cheesy or saucy – there is nothing like a pizza meal. What’s not to like about a hot, freshly baked pizza, with its crispy edges and soft centre, moist with tomato sauce?

Just the smell and the heat radiating off a pizza makes me hungry. This simple dish of bread, tomatoes and cheese could probably be Italy’s best gift to the world.

masterchef Pizza - 3So fellow pizza lovers (I am sure there are many) I want to share with you my experience of trying out Juno’s Pizza. In an era when artisanal and hipster pizzerias are all the rage, Juno’s pizza are homey and hearty. They serve only vegetarian, thin crust pizza in three sizes – 7”, 11” and 20”

Juno’s has a range of pizzas curated by Indian Master Chef finalist Radhika Sakhrani. I tried three of the Masterchef pizzas and a regular one.

What I loved

The fact that it’s thin crust. I am not a big fan of thick, bready, puffy crust that ends up being a waste.

masterchef Pizza - 2The Achari Kick Pizza (Masterchef Range) has just a hint of pickle spiked mozzarella, cottage cheese, onion and green chilies. The garnish of coriander and mustard oil enhances the flavor.

I was the only one in the party that loved the Four Pepper Pizza (Masterchef Range). Blame it on my affinity to spice. The chilli overdose is definitely not for the faint hearted – red chilli paste, veggies, pickled red peppers, red chilli flakes and Tabasco sauce. I loved it!

But what I loved the most is the House Special, a simple pizza exploding with capsicum, garlic and divinely melty mozzarella. It’s worth a long lunch…and a glass of wine.

pizza piecesPizza was built for sharing – which is why it’s always best to ‘go large’. The 20-inch pizza is cut into rectangle-shaped slices and is perfect for a home party.

Though Juno’s serves only vegetarian and Jain pizza, the variety is humungous.

What I didn’t: Jalapeno Popper Pizza from the Masterchef menu was a let down. This mildly spiced pizza with garlic cream cheese, mozzarella, jalapenos and golden bread crumbs loses its crunch on delivery. You can hardly taste the jalapenos that are overpowered by the soggy bread crumbs.

Unfortunately the garlic bread too had died on its way. The cheese overload just turned it into a soggy mess. 

Juno’s Pizza

Tel:  7303005555

Outlets : Kemps Corner, Diamond Market, BKC, One Indiabulls, Lower Parel, R City Mall, Ghatkopar West, Powai,  Borivali West, Vile Parle 

Website :  www.junospizza.com

 

 


5 things you must do at Aamby Valley

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I love the rain. It’s my favourite weather. The smell of wet soil just when it begins to rain is not only sweet, but brings new hope and makes you look forward to the rainbow and sunshine. So when life throws you a rainy day, play in the puddles! Or better still head to Aamby Valley a picturesque resort nestled amidst mountains and lakes, just 23 km from Lonavala.

chalet at Aamby Valley

The Aussie Chalet I stayed in

A visit to this scenic and mammoth resort was long overdue and thanks to Food bloggers Association of India (FBAI), it finally happened last month. So here’s a first person account of the five things you ought to do at Aamby Valley.

toy trainGet down and dirty in a jungle safari
For thrill seekers, 19 Degree North, at Aamby Valley is a must visit. The area is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts with activities such as speed boating, hiking, rappelling, rock climbing, zorbing and zip lining to enjoy. But as I found out first-hand, the most popular activity here, and for good reason, is the Jungle Safari.

Thrilling, muddy, fast-paced, exciting…addictive. Those are the best words to describe my first jungle safari. The trails have been designed for riders of all grades – whether seasoned or novice. I loved the thrill of it all, zooming atop a Gypsy along the paths, careening around the corners, wind in my face and even traveling full speed through the puddles.

When I came back from the ride, I was drenched in mud and I had a huge grin plastered across my face. My first cruising experience was incredible and I was already thinking about when my next ride would be. Addictive indeed.

You only live once, why not jump?
I did exactly that before fear could talk me down. Zip lining is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you just can’t miss. So I pulled up the harness and buckled up. The bird’s eye view of the breathtaking landscape across the lake is worth the butterflies in the stomach. Fear did grip me and I also had second thoughts. But all was well as soon as I felt the wind whipping past my face as I soared above the earth. It’s only when you step off the ledge, you’ll understand the remarkable difference between standing on the edge of something beautiful and actually being among it.

zip

Zip lining across the lake 

Remember to bring a camera and entrust it to a friend or a fellow zip liner to snap photos of your adventure. Live videos of the zip line are fun reminders of the trip, and a way to relive the adventure years later. As you zip along, take a moment to smile for the camera for a scrapbook-worthy photograph. Just like I did.

Do remember
To wear long pants that cover your legs because the safety harness has straps that can irritate the skin. Avoid skirts or dresses if you are riding on the zipline. Not only is it a safety hazard, you don’t want a Marilyn Monroe moment later.

bridge

 

Get drenched under the waterfalls
Few things capture the imagination like a majestic and impressive sight and sound of a roaring waterfall cascading down to Earth. There are as many as five charming, some powerful and thundering, but all perfectly stunning waterfalls at Aamby Valley.

 

waterfall

Braving the waterfall – for a moment

I visited one of them after a short hike through awesome scenery and a rope bridge. Watching water cascade over the lip of a waterfall is hypnotic. From below it starts as a raging torrent, plummeting to ground zero before feathering into a cloud of mist and soaking everything around. After watching fellow bloggers and journalists brave it under the falls, I too feebly attempted it for a few seconds before cowering back to safety. Raging, angry yet oddly beautiful, the waterfall experience is something I will never forget. If one fall is not enough, then continue on the waterfall trail to access the others that require a longer trek.

It’s a bus…it’s a boat…it’s an aqua bus!
Riding in an amphibian bus is a unique experience but riding in the only amphibian bus in the country is matchless! This duck faced yellow bus drives over the roads like a regular bus but when the road ends at the edge of a lake it just keeps going, taking to the water like a swan. As I clambered the drawbridge style stairs leading up into the bus I was all geared for a thrilling ride. But that was not meant to be. The Aqua Bus experience doesn’t quite translate into a big adrenaline rush of speed but that’s quite okay. Just gliding along the serene lake in the first Aqua Bus is memorable enough.

aqua-bus

Aqua Bus 

Eat your heart out
A good vacation is also about good food. And Aamby Valley has two brilliant restaurants that appealed to the foodie in me. Namak the Indian specialty restaurant serves a delectable spread of Awadhi and Hyderabadi dishes.

kababThe Nalli Gosht, Dal Makhni, Gosht Biryani and Burrah kebab are just superlative. The view of the lake adds to the dinning experience.

mabruk

Mabruk at Aamby Valley 

But if you are looking for dinner and a show, all wrapped up in one yummy package – head to Mabruk the Lebanese, Turkish and Moroccan specialty restaurant. The décor is appropriately moody, in drapes and hand-carved woodwork. Belly dancers make their way onto the scene later in the evening. These very sexy (think bared midriffs and swaying hips) dancers will make you want to hold on to your boyfriend’s/husband’s arm once they enter. The show takes place every night, so grab a table, sit back, and enjoy. What to eat? Hummus with pita bread is awesome as also the Shish Touk (Lebanese chicken kabab), Gambheri Mishwee (barbecued prawns) and Kunaf a cheese pastry soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup.

dancer

HOW TO GET THERE:
Aamby Valley is about 23 km from Lonavala, 87 km from the city of Pune and 120 km from the city Mumbai. You can drive down or hop on to any state owned buses that connect with the hill station Lonavala.

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR 


Escape to Saj By The Lake

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Should you need a nudge to get out of Mumbai and expand your sights, let me introduce you to a young resort just three hours away. It goes by the name Saj by the Lake and it’s warm and welcoming.

Exterior of Saj by the LakeThe 15 rooms come with greats views of the Sahyadris and the lake nearby. The interiors done by the Busride Brothers features a small indoor garden in the washroom (separated by glass doors), fountains in the lobby and lights that seems to hang like clouds from the ceiling. The fibre cows with eclectic designs add to the rustic feel at Saj. But the highlight of the resort is the serene and beautiful Pushpavati river (Pimpalgaon Joga Dam has been built across this river). It makes for a perfect sight to relish a cup of coffee in the morning or for a short walk to sit by the banks.

Restaurant - Day

Maati Baani the vegetarian restaurant

The in-house vegetarian restaurant Maati Baani is a pleasant deviation from the potato-cottage cheese cycle. The Maharashtrian specialities including methi pithle, kala vatana usal, nachni soup and stuffed brinjals are a must try here. The food is slow cooked in earthen pits and this imparts a nice smoky feel to the dishes. The hand bread is good by itself but wonderful when slathered with white butter and the fiery chilly pickle – thecha.

Bharleli Vangi at Saj By The Lake

Stuffed brinjal 

food at Saj by the LakeLeisure seekers can take a dip in the pool or put on their body zorbs (a cushioned bubble-like ball) and try bumping into their opponents. Or better still visit the ancient Karneshwar stone caves and a Shiva temple (with pretty stone carvings on its ceilings). If the mountains inspire you for a trek, try the nearby Shivneri and Harishchandragad peaks.

Pool Area at Saj by the Lake

 

HOW TO GET THERE: Kalyan-Ahmednagar Route, NH 222, Pune. Tel: 9664151190

COST: Rs 11900 for two nights inclusive of breakfast and all sports activities for a couple.

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

 


Beach dining at Estella

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You may not be able to slip off your shoes and sink your feet into the sand beneath your table but you can do the next best thing – of enjoying an outstanding meal while being serenaded by the lovely sea breeze and the magnificent sunset at Juhu beach at Estella the newest restaurant in town.

estella-bar

The bar at Estella

Undoubtedly dining beneath the stars, with the sound of the tide nearby, heightens the sensuality of an already pleasurable meal. Estella is upscale but casual with superb service to boot. The modern Australian meal served here encourages you to linger on, while soaking up the ocean views and some great people watching on the beach.

I loved the bread basket with zaatar bread, sundried tomato focaccia and the chedder cheese straws served with smoked hazelnut butter and herb garlic butter. It’s easy to stuff up on them if you don’t know what’s coming next

estella-scallops

Grilled scallops with miso honey cream and carrot foam

 

The grilled scallops with miso honey cream and carrot foam is exquisite. The presentation too is breathtaking. The seafood al ajilio (with clams, shrimps and scallops) is another must try here. The sherry saffron garlic butter sauce is quite addictive.

lamb-at-estella

Lamb on spinach and flaky pastry

 

The star of the show for me was the lamb served on a bed of spinach and flaky puff pastry. The banana and caramel parfait with tangy kiwi marmalade was delightfully reticent in sugariness.

estella-dessert

Plum and frangipani tart

 

If you drink go for the Yuzu Sour which is a bitter, sour and sweet drink of singleton of ord malt with Japanese yuzu.

we-at-estella

Surya and me at Estella

 

In Estella I have found my wedding anniversary spot (which is approaching soon). It’s romantic and the music is kept low, so we can hear each other venting.

Estella, Nichani Kutir, Juhu Tara Road, Mumbai. Open only for dinner. Meal for two: Rs 5000

NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

 


I found my paradise in Maldives – Gili Lankanfushi

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glm_crusoe-residence-exterior-with-hammockIt’s not hard to see why Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives keep winning Travellers Choice awards for luxury hotels

My shoes were collected and stowed away the moment I stepped into the luxurious speed boat that came to pick me up at the airport. Gili Lankanfushi  has a ‘No News No Shoes,’ policy. They were returned to me only when I left the resort for my flight back to India!

The 45 over-the-water suites and villas at Gili are built off wooden walkways that stand above the shallow lagoon.

glm_sunset-at-overwater-barEach has its own private water garden for slipping into the sea, a sun deck, as well as a separate shower linked to the bathroom by a semi open air walkway that allows you to live right by the water’s edge. The views are consistently spectacular and the villas offer complete solitude with the exception of the occasional starfish gliding in the shallow water and the song of the sea. Out of season you can even have the beach to yourself, save a few surfers who brave the brisk sea all year round.

Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives, travel, Nivedita Jayaram Pawar,

My water villa at Gili Lankanfushi

At Gili, you’ll get as much (or as little) attention as you want from the staff. Each villa is allotted a Mr/Ms Friday who is at your service 24/7. Should you need a nudge to get out of your luxurious private den there are some nice dining options with freshly-caught cuisine and an intangible romantic appeal. The kitchen gets it daily fresh supply of herbs and salad leaves from the organic garden nestled in the heart of the resort.

gili Lankanfushi, resort, travel, Maldives, wine cellar, Nivedita Jayaram Pawar

Underground wine cellar at Gili Lankanfushi

Another experience not to be missed is the chocolate and wine pairing in the underground cellar. Slip on a jacket, place your feet over hot water bottles and explore wines from more than 30 regions around the world with handmade chocolates and artisanal cheese.

surfing-in-maldivesWhen you are tired of the aqua blue waters and lying out in the sun (unlikely, but still) you could take a kayak out to see the sun set, lounge in your very own over water hammock or better still explore the marvels that lie below the surface of the turquoise waters with the resort’s snorkeling and scuba excursions. The thrill of surfing and flying down the line of a wave with the wind singing in your ears is simply incontestable. If adrenaline is not your thing watch a movie on the beach under the stars at the outdoor movie theatre. The cinema shows films twice a week.

glm_meera-spa-and-one-palm-islandYou could spend an entire vacation just lazing around but to do so would mean sacrificing a trip to the spa that overlooks the sea. The glass floor panels strategically built under the massage table give you a glimpse of the sea while the masseur kneads your tired muscles.

Cost: 1 lakh onwards for a day

How to get there: Lankanfushi Island, North Male Atoll, Republic of Maldives.

Gili is just twenty minutes by speedboat from Malé international airport.


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